The process of applying for a liquor licence for parties, restaurants, hotels, or for clubs in Delhi has been simplified as the excise department said it has completely moved the system online.

In a recent order issued by the Delhi government’s excise department, officials have been directed to stop accepting the applications in person. “As per directions of commissioner (excise), henceforth, all the applications for grant of licence to the extent ‘on premises’ consumption of liquor shall only be received in the department online on our official website delhiexcise.gov.in,” read the order issued on Friday.

While the application for P-10 licence, which is needed for serving liquor in marriages and other private events, already online, the new rule will be applicable for those seeking L-15, L-16, L-17, L-18, L-19, L-20, L-21, L-28 and L-29 licences.

“All the concerned are directed not to accept applications in mentioned category in physical form. The system is already live,” the order further read.

While L-15 and L-16 licences are meant for hotels, L-17 to L-19 licences are for independent restaurants.

“It is a big relief for restaurateurs. Until now we had to apply in the office of the commissioner of excise in prescribed form and submit documents as indicated in the application form. This is going to save us a lot of time,” said Sandeep Khandelwal of the Delhi Hotel and Restaurant Owners Association.

The move is among a string of initiatives taken by the excise department to ensure “ease of doing business.” The applicants will also be able to track the status of their application online.

“Apart from making it convenient for people, the move will also eliminate touts and the scope of corruption that some officials could engage in,” an official added.

To apply, a person will have to first register in the excise department’s website after which the form can be filled in the portal itself.

The system will also cover clubs registered with the Registrar of Firms or Registrar of Cooperative Societies, for serving foreign liquor to its members.